Information for all unpaid carers during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic

We want to help make sure all our city’s unpaid carers get the information they need during the COVID-19 situation.

Carers are people of all ages who care for friends or family members who need support due to their physical health or mental health needs.

If you are a carer, the best place to go for support and information is the city’s Carers Hub. This is delivered by a partnership involving the council, the city’s Carers Centre, Crossroads Care and the Alzheimer’s Society.

The Carers Hub, and the council website, are aiming to offer support with some of the key issues you are facing as a result of COVID-19.

You will find relevant government guidance on keeping yourself and the people you care for safe. There will be clear links to services you may need over the coming days and weeks.

We will also be posting regular updates as this fast-moving situation progresses.

If you need support with your caring role, then please contact the Carers Hub:

• phone 01273 977000, or
• visit carershub.co.uk

They will be able to either directly support you, or signpost you to the most appropriate services.

It is important to consider contingency plans during this period, and Carers UK have provided some useful guidance at carersuk.org.

The council’s executive director of health and adult social care, Rob Persey, has made the following statement of support for all unpaid carers across the city:

“We know that before the COVID-19 situation, we had nearly 10% of our local population providing vital unpaid care, and this will now potentially be increasing.

“We want to reassure all our local friend and family carers that we recognise and value the essential support you provide, and we will continue to support you during these difficult times.

“The council is providing regular updates regarding COVID-19 guidance and support on our website, and the Carers Hub will continue to provide support to all unpaid carers within the city.”